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beta-Propiolactone

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Synonyms & Trade Names
BPL, Hydroacrylic acid, β-lactone, 3-Hydroxy-β-lactone, 3-Hydroxy-propionic acid, β-Lactone, 2-Oxetanone, 3-Propiolactone
CAS No.
57-57-8
RTECS No.
RQ7350000
DOT ID & Guide
Formula
C₃H₄O₂
Conversion
IDLH
Ca [N.D]
See: IDLH INDEX
Exposure Limits
NIOSH REL
Ca See Appendix A
OSHA PEL
[1910.1013] See Appendix B
Measurement Methods
None available
See: NMAM or OSHA Methods
Physical Description
Colorless liquid with a slightly sweet odor.
Molecular Weight
72.1
Boiling Point
323°F (Decomposes)
Freezing Point
-28°F
Solubility
37%
Vapor Pressure
(77°F): 3 mmHg
Ionization Potential
?
Specific Gravity
1.15
Flash Point
165°F
Upper Explosive Limit
?
Lower Explosive Limit
2.9%
Class IIIA Combustible Liquid: Fl.P. at or above 140°F and below 200°F.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities
Acetates, halogens, thiocyanates, thiosulfates [Note: May polymerize upon storage.]
Exposure Routes
inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms
Skin irritation, blistering, burns; corneal opacity; frequent urination; dysuria; hematuria (blood in the urine); [potential occupational carcinogen]
Target Organs
Kidneys, skin, lungs, eyes
Cancer Site
[in animals: tumors of the liver, skin & stomach]
Personal Protection/Sanitation
(See protection codes)
Skin:Prevent skin contact
Eyes:Prevent eye contact
Wash skin:When contaminated/Daily
Remove:When wet or contaminated
Change:Daily
Provide:Eyewash, Quick drench
First Aid
(See procedures)
Eye:Irrigate immediately
Skin:Soap wash immediately
Breathing:Respiratory support
Swallow:Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations

(See Appendix E)

NIOSH

At concentrations above the NIOSH REL, or where there is no REL, at any detectable concentration:
(APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode
(APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus

Escape:
(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister
Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus

Important additional information about respirator selection

See also
INTRODUCTION   ICSC CARD: 0555   MEDICAL TESTS: 0197
Page last reviewed: October 30, 2019
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health